Benitez positive ahead of testing week

Rafael Benitez is confident Liverpool can get their season back on track ahead of a crucial double-header with Lyon and Manchester United.

The Reds face the French outfit in the Champions League on Tuesday before hosting Alex Ferguson's Barclays Premier League leaders next Sunday.
 
The Spaniard acknowledges the defeat at Sunderland was a setback but feels his side are capable of recapturing their best form - especially if key duo Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard return from injury.
 
"People ask what happens if we lose against Lyon and United, but what about if we win both games? We feel we can win and everything can change in a positive way," said Rafa.
 
"Our priority now is Lyon because we hopefully have players coming back from injury.
 
"I think Gerrard and Torres will be available. If they are, I don't see any problem playing them before the United game because that will be five days later. If we win the first of these games it will be easier for the next one."
 
Liverpool's last outing in the Champions League ended in a disappointing 2-0 reversal against Fiorentina.
 
Lyon currently top the group with two wins from two, but Benitez believes the Reds can re-address the situation by producing the type of performance that has earned them a reputation as one of the most feared teams in Europe.
 
He added: "We know the first half against Fiorentina wasn't good enough. But the second half was really good. I think we had 12 attempts on goal to their one.
 
"We have enough quality, confidence and experience in the squad, so it's a case of approaching every game thinking we have to win. We have had difficult games and difficult moments in the past and shown our character.
 
"Lyon are a good team, they play quality, attacking football and have experience of playing in the Champions League for many years. So they know what they are doing.
 
"But to play against Liverpool is not easy for anyone. You can lose, draw, but always any team in the world would say Liverpool is difficult to beat and, hopefully, it will be the same this time.
 
"Our fans know the Champions League is a special competition and for us it has been amazing.
 
"The atmosphere in the Champions League has always been good for our team, especially when we are under pressure.
 
"Anfield will be a key factor for us. We need the fans behind us. They are the best in the world."

The views expressed in this story do not necessarily reflect the views of Liverpool Football Club